CBP U.S. Border Patrol Agents Intercept Cocaine Load at East San Diego County Checkpoint

Release Date:

January 9, 2012

PINE VALLEY, CALIF.—U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Interstate 8 checkpoint in East San Diego County prevented a recent narcotics smuggling attempt that resulted in the seizure of more than 47 pounds of cocaine.

After a positive canine alert, agents searched the vehicle and discovered a total of 20 bundles of cocaine concealed inside of the rocker panels on both sides of the vehicle.

On January 8, at approximately 10:30 a.m., agents encountered a 43-year-old male Mexican national driver of a light blue 2006 BMW X3 as he arrived at the checkpoint. During inspection, agents became suspicious of the man's nervous demeanor and referred him for a secondary inspection.

A CBP Border Patrol K-9 team performed a cursory inspection of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert to the driver's side door. Agents searched the vehicle and discovered a total of 20 bundles of cocaine concealed inside of the rocker panels on both sides of the vehicle.

The cocaine weighed a total 47.09 pounds and had an estimated street value of $470,900. The suspected smuggler and narcotics were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further investigation. The BMW was seized by the CBP U.S. Border Patrol.

To prevent illicit smuggling of humans, drugs, and other contraband, the CBP U.S. Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on major corridors of egress away from our nation's borders. To report suspicious activity, contact San Diego Sector at (619)-498-9900.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.